prime illustration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prime illustration" is correct and usable in written English.
It typically refers to an example that best demonstrates a particular point. For example, "The ancient city of Rome is a prime illustration of the power of the Roman Empire."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

He's a prime illustration of what plagues the Republican Party and holds it back.

The New York Times

A prime illustration of the near merger of painting and photography is Gregory Crewdson's large untitled photograph of suburban life gone awry.

The New York Times

By not making that connection, the movement is losing touch with one of its greatest triumphs and forsaking a prime illustration of why its cause is so just and so crucial.

The New York Times

The Engine is another prime illustration of a uniquely MIT-developed resource that is already having a positive impact: raising and investing patient capital to support promising projects within and outside of MIT, including energy ventures like Professor Yet-Ming Chiang's Baseload Renewables or Professor Jeff Grossman's Via Separations.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Various theories of the meaning of the Atonement of Christ have arisen: satisfaction for the sins of the world; redemption from the devil or from the wrath of God; a saving example of true, suffering love; the prime illustration of divine mercy; a divine victory over the forces of evil.

Britannica

Prime illustration: When the Czech Republic's government fell in a no-confidence vote last Tuesday, it raised the question of the country's commitment to continue taking part in the American plan to build a missile shield aimed at countering eventual Iranian nukes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

To Dr. Alex Maltman, these are prime illustrations of the power of geology.

The New York Times - Science

Leonardo da Vinci and other Renaissance polymaths are prime illustrations.

Huffington Post

T3SS is a prime example of a vestigial system and an important illustration of the stepwise evolution of the flagella machinery [67], [68].

Plosone

The reimaginings caught on in Tumblr and Facebook art communities five years ago, cementing Prime's decision to pursue illustration full-time.

Vice

Just after he came to power, the Economist put an illustration of the prime minister with a Union Jack mohawk on its cover alongside the headline "Radical Britain: The West's most daring government".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "prime illustration" when you want to emphasize that the example you are providing is the most representative or best example of a certain concept or phenomenon. It adds a sense of authority and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "prime illustration" in very informal or casual settings. It can sound overly formal or pretentious in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "good example" or "perfect example" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prime illustration" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies a specific instance that best represents or exemplifies a concept, argument, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prime illustration" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, serving to introduce an exemplary instance of a concept or situation. It functions as a noun phrase, emphasizing the representativeness of the example. While predominantly found in formal contexts such as news, academic writing, and encyclopedias, it's best to avoid it in casual conversation due to its formal tone. Alternatives like "perfect example" or "classic case" can be used for similar meanings. In essence, "prime illustration" adds clarity and authority when used appropriately in suitable contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perfect example

Changes the adjective to describe the quality of the example.

classic case

Emphasizes the typical nature of the example.

textbook example

Implies the example is so clear it could be used in teaching materials.

striking example

Highlights how noticeable the example is.

key example

Focuses on the importance of the example.

excellent demonstration

Uses "demonstration" instead of "illustration" to show something in action.

clear illustration

Emphasizes the ease of understanding the illustration.

good example

A more general and less emphatic way to indicate an example.

compelling illustration

Highlights the persuasive power of the illustration.

notable illustration

Emphasizes the significance and worthiness of attention the illustration.

FAQs

How can I use "prime illustration" in a sentence?

Use "prime illustration" to introduce a clear and representative example that supports your argument or explanation. For instance, "The success of the project is a "prime illustration" of the team's dedication".

What phrases are similar to "prime illustration"?

Similar phrases include "perfect example", "classic case", or "textbook example". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "prime illustration" formal or informal?

"Prime illustration" leans towards the formal side. While grammatically correct, it's more suitable for academic, professional, or journalistic writing than casual conversation. For more casual speech you could use "good example" or "great example".

What's the difference between "prime illustration" and "good example"?

"Prime illustration" suggests that the example is not only good but also the best or most representative. "Good example" is a more general term, while "prime illustration" implies a higher degree of suitability and relevance.